The League of Friends of Brecon War Memorial Hospital has held its annual general meeting, celebrating another year of support for local patients while also announcing the closure of its long-running hospital shop.

At the meeting, members confirmed a number of appointments for the year ahead. The new president is Mrs Alexandra Pettifer MVO, with officers including Chair Rev Dr Gill Todd, Secretary Mrs Penny Morgan, Treasurer Col (retd) Russell Stafford-Tolley, and Minute and Members Secretary Mrs Cheryl Williams and Mrs Bev Beck.

Mrs Pettifer also addressed those attending, giving a light-hearted talk about her life experiences.

The League of Friends charity has continued to play a key role in supporting Brecon War Memorial Hospital, raising funds for equipment and facilities for patients. Over the past year, this has included physiotherapy equipment, a refurbishment of the maternity suite, toys and equipment for the children’s unit, Christmas gifts for patients, meals for staff, and a contribution towards the hospital’s new car park.

However, members also used the occasion to confirm the closure of the hospital shop, which has been run by the League for 19 years.

The shop has provided refreshments for staff and visitors, along with essential items for patients and everyday goods such as snacks and cards.

Volunteers had hoped it could reopen in a new location within the hospital after its original space was required for urgent upgrades to IT infrastructure. However, the League said it is not possible to reopen the shop, because they are not in a position to agree the contract now required by the hospital.

While acknowledging the need to meet current health, safety and safeguarding requirements, the League had hoped a solution could be found, given the valuable service the shop has provided over many years.

The League is now exploring alternative ways to offer a “shop-like” service and has invited suggestions from the community.